Back in July, 32-year-old Shaun M. Ross was arrested in
Frederick, Maryland and charged with two counts of sexually
abusing a minor. He was the director of student ministry at the
Cavalry Assembly church. According to court records, the pending
charges originate from activity dating as far back as 2008 in a
community near Baltimore.

In April 2013, however, Ross and his wife were appointed to lead
the Victory Christian Center’s children’s programs in North
Syracuse despite the fact that he was not allowed to be in
contact with children during the investigation. Ross’ father,
Rev. Terry Ross, is a senior pastor at the center.

“We are excited to announce that Shaun and Brandi Ross will be
assuming leadership in our Children's ministry," read one of
the center’s Facebook posts dated April 1, according to
Syracuse.com. "Bring your children this Sunday for Kidz
Revolution! They will love it!"

While the leaders of Victory Christian Center’s parent church,
which is part of the Foursquare denomination, were informed of
the allegations against Ross, they did not necessarily give
approval for his April appointment.

"Pastor Terry Ross and son Shaun disclosed that Shaun had been
accused of sexual misconduct while serving on the staff of a
church in the Baltimore, Maryland, area and that charges are
pending," Dan Ussery, who supervises the Foursquare churches
in the Northeast, said to Syracuse.com in a written statement.

Ussery added that while Ross was permitted to attend Victory
Christian Center and participate in the church’s worship team, he
wasn’t allowed to actually work for the church or interact with
any children or minors. He did not respond to further questions
regarding the Facebook post that announced Ross’ appointment as
children’s program leader.

Neither of the Ross men commented on the situation.

Rick Trunfio, first chief assistant district attorney for
Onondaga County, where Syracuse is located, also confirmed that
Ross is not allowed near any children. He added that an
investigator from the sheriff’s office has contacted Victory
Christian Center and Terry Ross about the situation.